Christmas market in Essen

Under a glittering canopy of 45,000 lights, the 200-plus stalls of the International Christmas market in Essen are packed with fantastic gift ideas and culinary specialities from all over the world. The festively decorated stalls extend from the Willy-Brandt-Platz, along the Rathenaustrasse, to the Kennedyplatz, the Flachsmarkt up to the Markt. Set out on a journey into the past in the medieval market at the Great Cathedral and experience the true meaning of Advent at the nativity play (Krippenspiel). The illuminations from the Essen Festival of Lights and the avenues of conical lights are magnificent to behold. The 500-year-old tradition comes to life once again in the Nativity land of Essen. On your way through the city, you can discover wonderful Nativity scenes at 20 locations of peace and contemplation. You will sometimes even have angels showing you the way.